Megaminx
The Megaminx is a dodecahedron (12 faces). It looks terrifying, but here is the secret: It is just a 3x3.
The Concept
If you can solve a 3x3, you can solve 95% of a Megaminx.
- Centers: Fixed (just like 3x3).
- Edges: Have 2 colors (just like 3x3).
- Corners: Have 3 colors (just like 3x3).
The Steps
1. The Star (Cross)
Instead of a White Cross (4 edges), you build a White Star (5 edges).
- Strategy: Same as 3x3. Find the white edges and match them to their centers.
2. First Layer Corners (F2L)
Insert the 5 white corners.
- Strategy: Same as 3x3 (
R U R').
3. Second Layer Edges
This is where it gets long. You need to solve the edges above the white corners.
- Strategy: Use standard 3x3 edge insertion (
U R U' R' U' F' U F).
4. S2L (Second 2 Layers)
Now you have a “Star” pattern on the bottom. You need to build “Mega-F2L” for every other color around the equator.
- Process: Pick a color (e.g., Red). Build its “Star” legs, then insert its corners/edges. Move to the next color (Blue).
- Tip: Order matters! Go in a circle (Red -> Blue -> Yellow -> Purple -> Green).
5. Last Layer (Grey Face)
Now you have one face left (usually Grey).
- Edge Orientation: Make a Grey Star. (
F R U R' U' F'). - Corner Orientation: Twist corners to be Grey. (
R U R' U R U2 R'). - Permutation: Swap pieces to finish.
Why is it hard?
It’s not hard; it’s endurance. A 3x3 speedsolve takes 10 seconds. A Megaminx speedsolve takes 1 minute. It requires lookahead and stamina.